The National Planning Commission (NPC) convened its first meeting with newly appointed commissioners, who will guide the government on national development and economic planning. 

Director General Kaire Mbuende addressed the commissioners, who began their three-year term on the 1st of August.

Mbuende stressed the importance of aligning the commission's work with the objectives of NDP6, reminding the commissioners that their task is central to shaping the country's development trajectory.

"Failing to plan is planning to fail," Mbuende said, urging the commission to begin charting practical strategies that will ensure that Namibia achieves its set targets. 

He added that the commission's role is not only to advise but also to guide the country in meeting long-term economic and social goals.

"It is therefore your role, through this Commission, to provide the government with well-grounded policy advice and research that will ensure the country achieves these goals. Over the years, Namibia has pursued these aspirations through successive National Development Plans, the most recent being the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6). I urge each of you to familiarise yourselves with the plan and actively contribute ideas for its effective implementation."

He emphasised the need to focus on the development of agriculture value chains, agro-processing and manufacturing, green hydrogen, oil and gas, the nuclear industry, mining, tourism and gaming.

"As a Commission, we must work tirelessly to ensure that development in these sectors is realised. These are the strategic levers that will enable us to transform our economy and secure resilience in the face of global and domestic challenges."

The inaugural meeting marked the official start of the commissioners' mandate, with Mbuende calling for commitment and accountability in fulfilling the responsibilities placed on them by the government.